Southern Ragweed
Ambrosia bidentata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, GA and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Southern ragweed is an annual wildflower that grows 1-4 feet tall with small, inconspicuous greenish flowers from summer through early fall. This native plant thrives in full sun and drought conditions, making it well-suited to low-maintenance naturalized areas. It produces abundant pollen and seeds that support wildlife through the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern Ragweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Widely considered a weed by homeowners
- Produces allergenic pollen
- Informal appearance conflicts with maintained landscape expectations
Wildlife value
Host plant for red-banded hairstreak.
The flowers attract bees, beetles, and flies during summer blooming. Seeds provide food for birds, particularly finches and sparrows in fall.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Southern Ragweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.